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Covenant of Muirwood #3
The Void of Muirwood
When banished Princess Maia is captured by her father and threatened with execution, it appears that all is lost…until the people rise in rebellion against their king. Suddenly, the cast-aside royal finds herself crowned the first Queen of Comoros. But enemies appear on all sides as her father’s conniving supporters assemble a new army against the fledgling ruler. While Maia struggles to keep the peace within her own walls, she rushes to form historical alliances with her neighboring kingdoms against an impending invasion of the ruthless Naestors—led by the cruel Corriveaux—who will destroy anyone Maia loves in order to ruin her kingdom and prevent the mastons from regaining power.
Realizing that Muirwood Abbey is once again her only hope for survival, Maia gathers her people there for protection. When she discovers an adversary greater than she’s ever known, she must use all the magic, strength, and wisdom gained from her life’s trials to prevent the Void that would bring destruction to herself, her true love, and the entire kingdom.
Realizing that Muirwood Abbey is once again her only hope for survival, Maia gathers her people there for protection. When she discovers an adversary greater than she’s ever known, she must use all the magic, strength, and wisdom gained from her life’s trials to prevent the Void that would bring destruction to herself, her true love, and the entire kingdom.
410 pages, Paperback
First published October 27, 2015
1896 people are currently reading
2378 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Wheeler
127 books5,228 followersWall Street Journal bestselling author Jeff Wheeler took an early retirement from his career at Intel in 2014 to write full-time. He is a husband, father of five, and a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jeff lives in the Rocky Mountains.
Learn about Jeff’s many worlds at www.jeff-wheeler.com, or participate in one of his online writing classes through Writer’s Block (www.writersblock.biz).
Learn about Jeff’s many worlds at www.jeff-wheeler.com, or participate in one of his online writing classes through Writer’s Block (www.writersblock.biz).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 411 reviews
May 10, 2019
I'm glad that's over.
I didn't really care for this trilogy. I found the heroine insipid, some of the prose to be a bit on the flowery side, and the magic system makes my lip curl.
Apparently I can now return to Kingfountain and finish that (I'm reading in the author's suggested reading order). I am going to take a break for a while, though. I've had too much of invisible sky daddies and their need to not be questioned.
I didn't really care for this trilogy. I found the heroine insipid, some of the prose to be a bit on the flowery side, and the magic system makes my lip curl.
Apparently I can now return to Kingfountain and finish that (I'm reading in the author's suggested reading order). I am going to take a break for a while, though. I've had too much of invisible sky daddies and their need to not be questioned.
May 3, 2016
This turned out to be a surprisingly good young adult fantasy trilogy. It improved with each book. I adored the writing style and all of the characters. A great conclusion to a series that can be enjoyed by fantasy lovers of all ages. I'll definitely check out more of this writers work. Especially if he continues to list his work on kindleunlimited.
November 20, 2015
Well-done end to the trilogy. I will be looking for more by this author.
May 31, 2017
“It is entirely possible for wise and educated persons to disagree about points of fact. But facts are stubborn things. Whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passions, they cannot alter facts and evidence. We must strip away the rest. The happiness of the people is the aim of any good government.
Okay, first of all, can we just talk about how perfect this quote is for today’s society even though it was written in 2015? It’s like Wheeler knew we were going to need great political quotes like this. Or maybe because a lot of The Void of Muirwood has a lot to do with politics, but I like the premonition to reality storyline more.
However, despite how easily I find great quotes within the Covenant of Muirwood series, I’m still not completely won over. While I do appreciate plots that don’t rely on straight action to keep an audience entertained, since most things in life don’t work out with a fight and those that do don’t end well, I felt like The Void was dragged down a bit by the politics. Maia had some experience in peace-keeping and politics before her banishment, but she still had a long way to go to being a perfect ruler. This was an understandable struggle that Maia would encounter and I was curious to see how she would progress. Unfortunately, Maia didn’t actually seem to have that hard of a time ruling, it was just the fact that others didn’t want her to.
In every decision that Maia has to make as a ruler, there always seemed to be the right choice, and she of course always chose wisely (cue knight from The Last Crusade). While some people were unhappy about it, they were always the bad or ignorant people. There was no gray area, no doubt or uncertainty. I understand that part of being one with the Medium means not having any doubt of your choices (because the Medium will guide you), but as I said in my review of the second installment, a puny, imperfect mortal like myself has a hard time relating to that situation. Any kind of doubt or insecurity that Maia experiences only seems to appear so we’ll remember that she’s supposed to be a real human, but then quickly returns to the perfect other-being.
The only time I felt like Maia seemed like a real person with true emotions was when Collier was involved. FINALLY, I can have some serious swooning going on over Collier. Except, guess what? Once again, now that I actually enjoy him and don’t hate him, where is he? GONE. Always a book-maid, never a book-bride.
The ending was definitely the most disappointing for me. It was so easy. Compared to everything she experienced in her entire life, this was probably the easiest, even though this book should’ve been one of the most difficult. Even with her faith in the Medium, she had bigger fish to fry (forgive?), but the fish ended up being tiny minnows that she set free. (Not that I’m saying they should’ve been killed, it was just so easy. Don’t take my word for it though, Maia admits it herself:
It was so simple.
I don’t want to give away the ending and I know that this seems like I’m pulling a random quote from anywhere in the book, but this happens at 91% right at the end. I have a hard time finding book fulfillment when even the protagonist thinks that the task is easy. You could say that I’m taking her too literally and maybe she was being sarcastic. Except that she goes and does this task within a couple percentages of the book and does less than snap her fingers to accomplish it. Also, despite all this trash talk from Corriveaux, the main antagonist, we never really get a one-on-one stand-off between him and Maia. Huzzah? The entire ending deserves maybe one cheer.
Honestly, I thought I was waiting for it from the first book, and while I was disappointed that I was wrong, I will also give Wheeler credit for not falling into my original expectations. That doesn’t necessarily mean that what actually happened was more interesting.
A lot of the lack-luster action and tension in The Void of Muirwood in my opinion was saved by the kishion. Hoooooly buckets, what an interesting character. Ever since his re-return in The Ciphers of Muirwood, I was looking forward to seeing more of him. Talk about a conflicted character, and yet he was one of my favorites. I’ve noticed a pattern that most of my favorite characters in this series (Collier and the kishion) are more complicated, which shouldn’t be all that surprising, because these types of characters are more interesting and more human. While Maia is a conundrum because of her deep faith and goodness despite her suffering, she comes out looking more like a faultless goddess that I can never relate to or aspire to be.
Okay, first of all, can we just talk about how perfect this quote is for today’s society even though it was written in 2015? It’s like Wheeler knew we were going to need great political quotes like this. Or maybe because a lot of The Void of Muirwood has a lot to do with politics, but I like the premonition to reality storyline more.
However, despite how easily I find great quotes within the Covenant of Muirwood series, I’m still not completely won over. While I do appreciate plots that don’t rely on straight action to keep an audience entertained, since most things in life don’t work out with a fight and those that do don’t end well, I felt like The Void was dragged down a bit by the politics. Maia had some experience in peace-keeping and politics before her banishment, but she still had a long way to go to being a perfect ruler. This was an understandable struggle that Maia would encounter and I was curious to see how she would progress. Unfortunately, Maia didn’t actually seem to have that hard of a time ruling, it was just the fact that others didn’t want her to.
In every decision that Maia has to make as a ruler, there always seemed to be the right choice, and she of course always chose wisely (cue knight from The Last Crusade). While some people were unhappy about it, they were always the bad or ignorant people. There was no gray area, no doubt or uncertainty. I understand that part of being one with the Medium means not having any doubt of your choices (because the Medium will guide you), but as I said in my review of the second installment, a puny, imperfect mortal like myself has a hard time relating to that situation. Any kind of doubt or insecurity that Maia experiences only seems to appear so we’ll remember that she’s supposed to be a real human, but then quickly returns to the perfect other-being.
The only time I felt like Maia seemed like a real person with true emotions was when Collier was involved. FINALLY, I can have some serious swooning going on over Collier. Except, guess what? Once again, now that I actually enjoy him and don’t hate him, where is he? GONE. Always a book-maid, never a book-bride.
The ending was definitely the most disappointing for me. It was so easy. Compared to everything she experienced in her entire life, this was probably the easiest, even though this book should’ve been one of the most difficult. Even with her faith in the Medium, she had bigger fish to fry (forgive?), but the fish ended up being tiny minnows that she set free. (Not that I’m saying they should’ve been killed, it was just so easy. Don’t take my word for it though, Maia admits it herself:
It was so simple.
I don’t want to give away the ending and I know that this seems like I’m pulling a random quote from anywhere in the book, but this happens at 91% right at the end. I have a hard time finding book fulfillment when even the protagonist thinks that the task is easy. You could say that I’m taking her too literally and maybe she was being sarcastic. Except that she goes and does this task within a couple percentages of the book and does less than snap her fingers to accomplish it. Also, despite all this trash talk from Corriveaux, the main antagonist, we never really get a one-on-one stand-off between him and Maia. Huzzah? The entire ending deserves maybe one cheer.
Honestly, I thought I was waiting for it from the first book, and while I was disappointed that I was wrong, I will also give Wheeler credit for not falling into my original expectations. That doesn’t necessarily mean that what actually happened was more interesting.
A lot of the lack-luster action and tension in The Void of Muirwood in my opinion was saved by the kishion. Hoooooly buckets, what an interesting character. Ever since his re-return in The Ciphers of Muirwood, I was looking forward to seeing more of him. Talk about a conflicted character, and yet he was one of my favorites. I’ve noticed a pattern that most of my favorite characters in this series (Collier and the kishion) are more complicated, which shouldn’t be all that surprising, because these types of characters are more interesting and more human. While Maia is a conundrum because of her deep faith and goodness despite her suffering, she comes out looking more like a faultless goddess that I can never relate to or aspire to be.
April 18, 2019
OK - I get it, Jeff Wheeler is religious. I mean, yes, I knew this going in. But I have been reading Harbinger and thought I could probably deal with it. To help with the wait for book 5 of Harbinger, I decided to read some of his other books. The Queen's Poisoner series was not bad, although the ending was trite. But you want trite? Read this series.
Maia is a "perfect" woman, whose big fault isn't even her fault - which she has pointed out several times throughout the series. Someone else made the choice for her to be a hetera! But, as characters around her immediately point out, she still has to live with the actions of others. But thank GOODNESS she's meek, and caring, and forgiving, and everyone who is around her either loves her or falls in love with her. Like the kishion. The one who becomes enamored with her to the point where he throws all logic out the window and tries to save her constantly, only to be treated with complete revulsion (the very word used several times as Maia observed him). Where's her forgiveness and understanding there?
Then - really - did we have to have yet another fairy tale ending? Where Collier is not only her True Love, but also immune to the curse. Oh, and dying because of stabbing. Wheeler really needs to stop giving his characters total get out of jail free cards. Also at what point did he become her True Love? Because we see them together briefly, and then suddenly she's in love with him. And of course, her goodness inspires him to become uber religious as well.
I think one of the things that irritates me most as well is the fact that the women - actually almost everyone in his series - are either good or evil. There is no gray, except maybe in the case of Maeg, who is jealous and a bully, but naturally Maia's temperament leads her to forgive Maeg and eventually Maeg comes to love her too.
The books started out promising - in his own notes, he wanted to have a character that was a bad guy but didn't know she was a bad guy - but he ditched that so quickly that it didn't even matter. I'm giving it a 2, instead of a 1, because I think that the author is a decent writer. However, he'd be a better writer if he was less sexist - it appears in his view women are all pure and good or evil. This is across ALL of his stories, and the more I read his books, the more it irritates me. I'll be taking a break from his writing for a while after this.
Maia is a "perfect" woman, whose big fault isn't even her fault - which she has pointed out several times throughout the series. Someone else made the choice for her to be a hetera! But, as characters around her immediately point out, she still has to live with the actions of others. But thank GOODNESS she's meek, and caring, and forgiving, and everyone who is around her either loves her or falls in love with her. Like the kishion. The one who becomes enamored with her to the point where he throws all logic out the window and tries to save her constantly, only to be treated with complete revulsion (the very word used several times as Maia observed him). Where's her forgiveness and understanding there?
Then - really - did we have to have yet another fairy tale ending? Where Collier is not only her True Love, but also immune to the curse. Oh, and dying because of stabbing. Wheeler really needs to stop giving his characters total get out of jail free cards. Also at what point did he become her True Love? Because we see them together briefly, and then suddenly she's in love with him. And of course, her goodness inspires him to become uber religious as well.
I think one of the things that irritates me most as well is the fact that the women - actually almost everyone in his series - are either good or evil. There is no gray, except maybe in the case of Maeg, who is jealous and a bully, but naturally Maia's temperament leads her to forgive Maeg and eventually Maeg comes to love her too.
The books started out promising - in his own notes, he wanted to have a character that was a bad guy but didn't know she was a bad guy - but he ditched that so quickly that it didn't even matter. I'm giving it a 2, instead of a 1, because I think that the author is a decent writer. However, he'd be a better writer if he was less sexist - it appears in his view women are all pure and good or evil. This is across ALL of his stories, and the more I read his books, the more it irritates me. I'll be taking a break from his writing for a while after this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2017
The Muirwood series are too much religious. The core of the book is the Medium (equivalent to God's will) and it's almost on every page. Good heroes follow the Medium, bad heroes don't. Guess who wins at the end :)
December 29, 2020
This third book in the series starts with a look inside the mysticism of The Medium, followed by a lot of action and changing fortunes for Maia. There's a lot of tension and great storytelling to move it forward. I felt that the series had definitely found its feet with this one.
I don't want to spoil what actually happens, but the kingdom is under threat, the succession is under contention and Maia's marriage is under the pressures of the demands of rulership, both at home and in Dahomey. There is plenty of conflict and twists and turns to keep the reader guessing what might happen next.
Though there are more books to the series, I feel finished with this one. There is too much stress and doom without enough happy interlude to keep me going further. Maia drives me nuts with her generous attitude, even when people betray her trust, and though she is basically likeable, she doesn't have an edge to her to make me care deeply.
Having said that, I've enjoyed reading three books of the series. Good Fantasy.
I don't want to spoil what actually happens, but the kingdom is under threat, the succession is under contention and Maia's marriage is under the pressures of the demands of rulership, both at home and in Dahomey. There is plenty of conflict and twists and turns to keep the reader guessing what might happen next.
Though there are more books to the series, I feel finished with this one. There is too much stress and doom without enough happy interlude to keep me going further. Maia drives me nuts with her generous attitude, even when people betray her trust, and though she is basically likeable, she doesn't have an edge to her to make me care deeply.
Having said that, I've enjoyed reading three books of the series. Good Fantasy.
May 25, 2017
A wonderful thrilling action packed final episode to this series. Maia and her family and friends have many trials and challenges ahead of them as they try to save the Kingdom, of which Maia is the true Queen, as well as save the land from ruin and another blight. The kingdoms are on the brink of war with each other and distracting Maia's allies when she needs them most.
Danger, death, injury, magic, relationships, betrayal, love and trust will all be part of her journey. A fabulous gripping emotional conclusion to this magical series.
A page turner that is hard to put down!!!
Danger, death, injury, magic, relationships, betrayal, love and trust will all be part of her journey. A fabulous gripping emotional conclusion to this magical series.
A page turner that is hard to put down!!!
June 29, 2024
Good prevails.
September 29, 2015
I received this ARC Copy from NetGalley in exchange for my review
Writing:
The Void of Muirwood continues to explore deeper ideas in his writing. The roles of women, religious themes, relationships, life wisdom and character development.
The stakes are higher, the
Cover:
I think it’s a good reflection of the story but it’s not my favorite. The photo/illustration combo feels just a little lacking in being dynamic and smooth, but it’s ok.
Main Characters:
Maia: As she steps into a formal role of leadership, I think Wheeler demonstrates well team dynamics, leadership obstacles and tricky relationship that are necessary to navigate when thrust into a position of power. As she navigates the world around her, her growth and failures continue to make her more love-able.
Collier: I officially love Collier. What a great hero and love interest. Love all of the twists and turns of the heart that come with him.
John Tayt: What a great supporting character. Always love when he is the scene.
The Kishion: I wondered what direction the role of the kishion would take. My heart broke for the kishion and yet was frustrated by his actions. Yet I could see that it was a broken and abusive attempt at love which I think is what made it all the more heart breaking. For a moment, I wasn’t sure who to root for.
Plot and pacing:
Very good. I think Jeff Wheeler has the give-and-go of adventure, suspense and romantic tension down to a science.
Inconsistencies:
None.
Romance:
Clean. This romance has been one of my favorites. Loved the resolution of the relationships.
(See She Would Readfor my romance rating system.)
Writing:
The Void of Muirwood continues to explore deeper ideas in his writing. The roles of women, religious themes, relationships, life wisdom and character development.
The stakes are higher, the
Cover:
I think it’s a good reflection of the story but it’s not my favorite. The photo/illustration combo feels just a little lacking in being dynamic and smooth, but it’s ok.
Main Characters:
Maia: As she steps into a formal role of leadership, I think Wheeler demonstrates well team dynamics, leadership obstacles and tricky relationship that are necessary to navigate when thrust into a position of power. As she navigates the world around her, her growth and failures continue to make her more love-able.
Collier: I officially love Collier. What a great hero and love interest. Love all of the twists and turns of the heart that come with him.
John Tayt: What a great supporting character. Always love when he is the scene.
The Kishion: I wondered what direction the role of the kishion would take. My heart broke for the kishion and yet was frustrated by his actions. Yet I could see that it was a broken and abusive attempt at love which I think is what made it all the more heart breaking. For a moment, I wasn’t sure who to root for.
Plot and pacing:
Very good. I think Jeff Wheeler has the give-and-go of adventure, suspense and romantic tension down to a science.
Inconsistencies:
None.
Romance:
Clean. This romance has been one of my favorites. Loved the resolution of the relationships.
(See She Would Readfor my romance rating system.)
November 22, 2018
I can't!!
At book 6 of this series, we are beyond the need for plot summaries and trivial talk.
What an ending!!!!! I am writing this at nearly 0400 because that is how long it took me to read the last 40% of this book. I had my ups and downs with the Muirwood series but am 100% glad that I stuck it out to the end.
The bond between Maya and Collier might have started with deception and a bit of sorcery but it ended on a true note. I won't write spoilers but feel so satisfied at the end, even if it seems entirely outlandish. I wanted a happy ending so badly
The plot twists and turns just kept me going all night - the book took off running in the last half and I couldn't quit. The author's note at the end focused on where the inspiration for the characters came from, a nice touch as well.
In order of most to least favorite, I rank these books 6-4-5, 2-1-3. Stick with it if you are in doubt and don't quit after book 3!
Now I am going to try to sleep but I feel like the series hangover is going to be real for a few days
At book 6 of this series, we are beyond the need for plot summaries and trivial talk.
What an ending!!!!! I am writing this at nearly 0400 because that is how long it took me to read the last 40% of this book. I had my ups and downs with the Muirwood series but am 100% glad that I stuck it out to the end.
The bond between Maya and Collier might have started with deception and a bit of sorcery but it ended on a true note. I won't write spoilers but feel so satisfied at the end, even if it seems entirely outlandish. I wanted a happy ending so badly
The plot twists and turns just kept me going all night - the book took off running in the last half and I couldn't quit. The author's note at the end focused on where the inspiration for the characters came from, a nice touch as well.
In order of most to least favorite, I rank these books 6-4-5, 2-1-3. Stick with it if you are in doubt and don't quit after book 3!
Now I am going to try to sleep but I feel like the series hangover is going to be real for a few days
November 16, 2015
I enjoyed Jeff Wheeler's "The Void of Muirwood (Covenant of Muirwood #3)". It is a well-written, interesting story that kept me reading.
After all the chick lit and horror books, it was time for another fantasy. I had won Jeff Wheeler's book from Goodreads, so I decided to give it a try. It was great! I don't know how much I missed out on by not reading the two previous installments, but I did thoroughly enjoy this one.
Now, I have two more books to throw into my wishlist, courtesy of Mr. Wheeler, and will probably revisit my review once I have had a chance to read all three.
After all the chick lit and horror books, it was time for another fantasy. I had won Jeff Wheeler's book from Goodreads, so I decided to give it a try. It was great! I don't know how much I missed out on by not reading the two previous installments, but I did thoroughly enjoy this one.
Now, I have two more books to throw into my wishlist, courtesy of Mr. Wheeler, and will probably revisit my review once I have had a chance to read all three.
December 26, 2022
I didn't give this 1* because it definitely isn't the worst book I've read (this year or in general) but it feels almost generous to give it 2*. Let's call it one and a half.
At its core, this story is christian drivel. Now I'm an atheist so I do have some prejudice, but even so, the religious themes aren't subtle (unless subtle was a flying brick). There's even an undercurrent of a 'rivalry' religion in the Naesstors who bought Vikings to my mind (the shield wall, blood eagle) and of course these people are the 'bad' guys in the story. Some of the Medium's history is basically Adam and Eve, and it got to the point where I just skimmed the bullshit. This 'force' is kinda magical but it's mostly about belief and if you believe ENOUGH then everything will be okay. How convenient!
(Which brings to mind 'anything is possible if you just believe' from Cinderella Story, but at least that film KNEW it was shit. This story is just shit pretending to be something else.)
There could have been redemption for these vices if the main character wasn't such an annoying bellend. Maia is beautiful, kind, compassionate, intelligent, and all the other personality traits associated with being 'good'. Every time she speaks, people cry tears of joy (even the biggest, hardest men) and if she'd started singing to animals who then did her chores, I really wouldn't have been surprised. She gives me very 'i'M nOt liKe thE otHeR gIrlS' vibes, because other girls are usually just SO jealous of her obviously.
Everyone else loves her though, even ruthless trained killers, and she's just too beautiful for her own good. The only person who doesn't is Corriveux, who we're led to believe is pure evil and who has the intention of wiping out the rest of the world (apart from his own nation). His passion is very strong, and nothing can stop his mission. Maia MUST be stopped and killed, her people slaughtered and her kingdom burned to the ground.
BUT WAIT.
Of course there's a happy ending. Of course there fucking is. No one 'good' dies and everything is perfect.
This series has potential but it destroyed itself. Put the church and Mary Sues away Wheeler, and maybe you'll have something good.
At its core, this story is christian drivel. Now I'm an atheist so I do have some prejudice, but even so, the religious themes aren't subtle (unless subtle was a flying brick). There's even an undercurrent of a 'rivalry' religion in the Naesstors who bought Vikings to my mind (the shield wall, blood eagle) and of course these people are the 'bad' guys in the story. Some of the Medium's history is basically Adam and Eve, and it got to the point where I just skimmed the bullshit. This 'force' is kinda magical but it's mostly about belief and if you believe ENOUGH then everything will be okay. How convenient!
(Which brings to mind 'anything is possible if you just believe' from Cinderella Story, but at least that film KNEW it was shit. This story is just shit pretending to be something else.)
There could have been redemption for these vices if the main character wasn't such an annoying bellend. Maia is beautiful, kind, compassionate, intelligent, and all the other personality traits associated with being 'good'. Every time she speaks, people cry tears of joy (even the biggest, hardest men) and if she'd started singing to animals who then did her chores, I really wouldn't have been surprised. She gives me very 'i'M nOt liKe thE otHeR gIrlS' vibes, because other girls are usually just SO jealous of her obviously.
Everyone else loves her though, even ruthless trained killers, and she's just too beautiful for her own good. The only person who doesn't is Corriveux, who we're led to believe is pure evil and who has the intention of wiping out the rest of the world (apart from his own nation). His passion is very strong, and nothing can stop his mission. Maia MUST be stopped and killed, her people slaughtered and her kingdom burned to the ground.
BUT WAIT.
Of course there's a happy ending. Of course there fucking is. No one 'good' dies and everything is perfect.
This series has potential but it destroyed itself. Put the church and Mary Sues away Wheeler, and maybe you'll have something good.
August 21, 2019
Princess Maia was banished by her father and then was captured by him. He threatens to execute her if she does not abide by his rules and believe in him. The people do not want him to be king and then all of a sudden Maia is Queen. She has many enemies as there has never been a Queen before and they were supporters of her father. While she works with the people in her kingdom and make the wrongs all right from the cruelty of her father, she is fighting many enemies to come and destroy her. Maia gathers her people to Muirwood Abbey where they will be safer. As she is working with the magic within her and around her to fight against the people who want to do harm.
This story is full of friendship, love, betrayal and so many other emotions that it was hard to put down. I did find it a little slow at a couple of points and sometimes had to reread a couple of sections but overall I did enjoy the book.
This story is full of friendship, love, betrayal and so many other emotions that it was hard to put down. I did find it a little slow at a couple of points and sometimes had to reread a couple of sections but overall I did enjoy the book.
August 20, 2017
An Enjoyable Ending
I have really enjoyed reading Jeff Wheeler's series, as I find the stories both moving and interesting. I especially appreciate his reference and inspiration from historical figures and events and how he creates his own worlds and stories with them. I enjoy history, and I picked up the reference to Mary I or Bloody Mary immediately, but I was not aware of some of the real references he used until he explained in the author's note. It makes me want to explore more about her. I think I still enjoyed the Legends of Muirwood series better, as I had a difficult time putting any of those books down, and each book in this series did not give that same "must keep reading" feeling. I cannot put a finger on why that is, but overall it was very enjoyable to read and provided me with some quotes I really needed to hear at the time. Looking forward to reading more of Jeff Wheeler's books.
I have really enjoyed reading Jeff Wheeler's series, as I find the stories both moving and interesting. I especially appreciate his reference and inspiration from historical figures and events and how he creates his own worlds and stories with them. I enjoy history, and I picked up the reference to Mary I or Bloody Mary immediately, but I was not aware of some of the real references he used until he explained in the author's note. It makes me want to explore more about her. I think I still enjoyed the Legends of Muirwood series better, as I had a difficult time putting any of those books down, and each book in this series did not give that same "must keep reading" feeling. I cannot put a finger on why that is, but overall it was very enjoyable to read and provided me with some quotes I really needed to hear at the time. Looking forward to reading more of Jeff Wheeler's books.
December 14, 2017
I liked the first trilogy better but liked this one as well. Maia was strong in a different way than Lia, the main character of the first trilogy. Lia was a warrior while Maia was a strong willed, meek, princess that had to be strong in spirit and character to survive. Still good world building and loved this was inspired by Bloody Mary of English history.
June 12, 2019
Well done!
I thoroughly enjoyed the three books in Wheeler's Legend of Muirwood serries along with the 3 in the Covenant of Muirwood. I enjoyed pondering on the moral and philosophical struggles the characters endure. I love the message of hope and peace that can come through keeping covenants and being humble and kind.
I thoroughly enjoyed the three books in Wheeler's Legend of Muirwood serries along with the 3 in the Covenant of Muirwood. I enjoyed pondering on the moral and philosophical struggles the characters endure. I love the message of hope and peace that can come through keeping covenants and being humble and kind.
May 22, 2021
Talk about a complicated love story!
August 16, 2023
Loved this series!! I could hardly stand to put any of these books down.
November 8, 2021
I really enjoyed this series, but was hesitant at the beginning. Maia’s story reminds me of several of my favorite BOM stories. I’m excited to see if my kids pick up on these similarities while they are listening.
August 9, 2022
I feel like Wheeler’s writing has grown/progressed over the years. With all of his stories the pace is not very fast, yet still very captivating and building. This one being an older book was slightly less captivating at times; but overall, the story, the kingdom, the characters (esp Collier and the Kishion) were very good. I was not expecting the ending, which was okay well-deserved for Maia and her relentless faith. And even though it was cliche how her kiss did not effect/kill Collier, I like how that was incorporated and it’s like they were both set apart and meant for eachother.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 11, 2015
I would like to thank Amazon Publishing & NetGalley for giving me a copy of this e-ARC to read in exchange for an honest review. Though I received this e-book for free that in no way impacts my review.
Goodreads Teaser: "When banished Princess Maia is captured by her father and threatened with execution, it appears that all is lost…until the people rise in rebellion against their king. Suddenly, the cast-aside royal finds herself crowned the first Queen of Comoros. But enemies appear on all sides as her father’s conniving supporters assemble a new army against the fledgling ruler. While Maia struggles to keep the peace within her own walls, she rushes to form historical alliances with her neighboring kingdoms against an impending invasion of the ruthless Naestors—led by the cruel Corriveaux—who will destroy anyone Maia loves in order to ruin her kingdom and prevent the mastons from regaining power.
Realizing that Muirwood Abbey is once again her only hope for survival, Maia gathers her people there for protection. When she discovers an adversary greater than she’s ever known, she must use all the magic, strength, and wisdom gained from her life’s trials to prevent the Void that would bring destruction to herself, her true love, and the entire kingdom."
The third and final book in this Muirwood series sadly seemed to partially fall at into the trap of echoing its predecessor. While Maia and Lia (the main protagonist from the first Muirwood trilogy) are have quite different personalities, they both faced the same kinds of challenges; they must prevent the annihilation of their people and themselves if they miraculously pull off an unexpected ploy. However this is not to say that the book is not worth reading; it is worth the read and enjoyable as well, as long as you are willing to accept some distinct echoes of the first trilogy.
Of course Wheeler was wise enough to play upon the first trilogy and refer to it often enough that those echoes are part of the plot line. Though this book offers the answer to the question of the survival of Maia and Muirwood, I was drawn more to Maia's personal struggles surrounding her romance. I found it enjoyable that the fate of her romance, the one which we went through all the highs and lows with her, is rather directly tied to the survival of Comoros and Maia's people. As the story progresses more and more kingdoms get drawn into this conflict, one Maia did not ask for, more pressure is put upon her to somehow save life as they know it.
As with the other books in the series, this one also contains many twists and turns. But this time we finally get all the answers. Or do we? With the world Muirwood is set in being so popular what's to say that it won't be revisited in the future? But in the current version the answers to some questions are finally given and given in full. And aside from the fate of the maston abbey of Muirwood, the kingdom of Comoros, and all the other kingdoms the Naestor desire, it is the smaller fates that got to me. Will Suzenne and Dodd both survive to be reunited? What of the Ciphers and their fate - will they pave the path for others or be punished should they be discovered? And is Murer all that she claims to be, or are her claims part of a ruse? Will Richard and Joanna Syon accept their fates, and in doing so what will become of them? Will Sabine remain the High Seer? Will she survive the challenges facing her, or will Maia lose the last of her blood relatives? And those are just a few of the individual stories and personalities that combined create The Void of Muirwood, making it into the enchanting and intriguing tale that it is. Regardless of the answers found within, it is most certainly a story well worth reading. A tale that blends the minutiae and the overarching into a well balanced, rich read; a treat for all who enjoy a good romance, mystery, and even battles and war, for this book contains them all with plenty more left for you to discover when you read it for yourself.
Goodreads Teaser: "When banished Princess Maia is captured by her father and threatened with execution, it appears that all is lost…until the people rise in rebellion against their king. Suddenly, the cast-aside royal finds herself crowned the first Queen of Comoros. But enemies appear on all sides as her father’s conniving supporters assemble a new army against the fledgling ruler. While Maia struggles to keep the peace within her own walls, she rushes to form historical alliances with her neighboring kingdoms against an impending invasion of the ruthless Naestors—led by the cruel Corriveaux—who will destroy anyone Maia loves in order to ruin her kingdom and prevent the mastons from regaining power.
Realizing that Muirwood Abbey is once again her only hope for survival, Maia gathers her people there for protection. When she discovers an adversary greater than she’s ever known, she must use all the magic, strength, and wisdom gained from her life’s trials to prevent the Void that would bring destruction to herself, her true love, and the entire kingdom."
The third and final book in this Muirwood series sadly seemed to partially fall at into the trap of echoing its predecessor. While Maia and Lia (the main protagonist from the first Muirwood trilogy) are have quite different personalities, they both faced the same kinds of challenges; they must prevent the annihilation of their people and themselves if they miraculously pull off an unexpected ploy. However this is not to say that the book is not worth reading; it is worth the read and enjoyable as well, as long as you are willing to accept some distinct echoes of the first trilogy.
Of course Wheeler was wise enough to play upon the first trilogy and refer to it often enough that those echoes are part of the plot line. Though this book offers the answer to the question of the survival of Maia and Muirwood, I was drawn more to Maia's personal struggles surrounding her romance. I found it enjoyable that the fate of her romance, the one which we went through all the highs and lows with her, is rather directly tied to the survival of Comoros and Maia's people. As the story progresses more and more kingdoms get drawn into this conflict, one Maia did not ask for, more pressure is put upon her to somehow save life as they know it.
As with the other books in the series, this one also contains many twists and turns. But this time we finally get all the answers. Or do we? With the world Muirwood is set in being so popular what's to say that it won't be revisited in the future? But in the current version the answers to some questions are finally given and given in full. And aside from the fate of the maston abbey of Muirwood, the kingdom of Comoros, and all the other kingdoms the Naestor desire, it is the smaller fates that got to me. Will Suzenne and Dodd both survive to be reunited? What of the Ciphers and their fate - will they pave the path for others or be punished should they be discovered? And is Murer all that she claims to be, or are her claims part of a ruse? Will Richard and Joanna Syon accept their fates, and in doing so what will become of them? Will Sabine remain the High Seer? Will she survive the challenges facing her, or will Maia lose the last of her blood relatives? And those are just a few of the individual stories and personalities that combined create The Void of Muirwood, making it into the enchanting and intriguing tale that it is. Regardless of the answers found within, it is most certainly a story well worth reading. A tale that blends the minutiae and the overarching into a well balanced, rich read; a treat for all who enjoy a good romance, mystery, and even battles and war, for this book contains them all with plenty more left for you to discover when you read it for yourself.
January 7, 2016
The Void of Muirwood
Jeff Wheeler
The Covenant of Muirwood Trilogy
Fantasy
Review: Maia is sure she is a dead woman when she is captured and locked in Pent Tower to await her execution. Thankfully for her the people have heard she is locked in the tower and they will do anything to dethrone her father and set her on it as the rightful heir. After she is put on the throne she has to start preparing her kingdom to fight all of those who oppose her, from her father's allies to the Dochte Mandar who want her whole kingdom dead. It will be up completely up to Maia to figure out how to save her people.
This book was the best at least in my mind and I am sad to see the trilogy end. Now I will have to go back and read Lia’s trilogy. All of the question’s I had were answered by the end and the answers made me very happy. Especially when it came to all of the different relationships in the book.
Maia is the perfect heroine, she is strong, independant but kind and she knows when to listen to advice and when to listen to her own mind. Even when others believe she should do something that is against what she believes she is polite in how she lets them know that she will not be doing things their way. Since, she is the type of ruler who does not use fear to rule everyone loves her and it makes her a great role model to those around her, including her husband.
Again the action in this story just had me on the edge of my seat and I didn’t want to stop reading until I was done, but since this book was over four hundred pages I unfortunately could not read this in one sitting. Throughout my book I caught myself holding my breath just waiting to see what Maia would do and how others around her would respond.
This series is a must read for lovers of fantasy and action. You have to read them in order though or you will become lost or at least miss out on some very important parts. I also recommend going back and reading Lia’s story as she is talked about throughout the first and second books.
I received a free ecopy of this book from Netgalley for my honest opinion.
Jeff Wheeler
The Covenant of Muirwood Trilogy
Fantasy
Review: Maia is sure she is a dead woman when she is captured and locked in Pent Tower to await her execution. Thankfully for her the people have heard she is locked in the tower and they will do anything to dethrone her father and set her on it as the rightful heir. After she is put on the throne she has to start preparing her kingdom to fight all of those who oppose her, from her father's allies to the Dochte Mandar who want her whole kingdom dead. It will be up completely up to Maia to figure out how to save her people.
This book was the best at least in my mind and I am sad to see the trilogy end. Now I will have to go back and read Lia’s trilogy. All of the question’s I had were answered by the end and the answers made me very happy. Especially when it came to all of the different relationships in the book.
Maia is the perfect heroine, she is strong, independant but kind and she knows when to listen to advice and when to listen to her own mind. Even when others believe she should do something that is against what she believes she is polite in how she lets them know that she will not be doing things their way. Since, she is the type of ruler who does not use fear to rule everyone loves her and it makes her a great role model to those around her, including her husband.
Again the action in this story just had me on the edge of my seat and I didn’t want to stop reading until I was done, but since this book was over four hundred pages I unfortunately could not read this in one sitting. Throughout my book I caught myself holding my breath just waiting to see what Maia would do and how others around her would respond.
This series is a must read for lovers of fantasy and action. You have to read them in order though or you will become lost or at least miss out on some very important parts. I also recommend going back and reading Lia’s story as she is talked about throughout the first and second books.
I received a free ecopy of this book from Netgalley for my honest opinion.
January 28, 2016
The Void of Muirwood is the thrilling conclusion to The Covenant of Muirwood trilogy. Maia’s evil father has died, leaving Maia as the only heir of Comoros. Maia must face the task of ruling her kingdom. She must appoint worthy people to serve her so she can bring peace to the kingdom. However, there are people in her country who do not see her as the true ruler and begin to rebel. Yet, while the country begins fighting each other, they face a bigger threat that will intends to destroy them all. Can Maia save her kingdom and restore peace and prosperity to her lands?
Maia has never been trained to rule as queen. Yet, she makes wise decisions. She appoints people whom she trusts and who have the interests of the kingdom to serve her. As queen, Maia is thrust into obstacles and hard decisions that she must make alone. She must rely on her instincts and let them show her the way. She must also learn to forgive her enemies and bestow them mercy. She strives to rule with truth and goodness. However, she is not perfect. She does not trust people easily, she is prone to jealousy, and sometimes has a thirst for vengeance. Yet, she is relatable because she wants to do what is right.
Overall, this book is about friendship, love, trust, mercy, choices, and forgiveness. The message of the story is to forgive those who have done you wrong. The story was fast-paced and full of adventure. The characters were likeable and the villains were complex and interesting. This book is a fantasy, however it is inspired by the life of an actual historical figure, Mary Tudor, the first female ruler of England. Thus, this book is full of court intrigue, suspense, danger, and action. I found that this book was a nice conclusion to the series. I recommend this book to anyone interested in Mary Tudor, warring kingdoms, and high epic fantasy.
(Note: I read an ARC copy of this book in courtesy of Netgalley.)
Maia has never been trained to rule as queen. Yet, she makes wise decisions. She appoints people whom she trusts and who have the interests of the kingdom to serve her. As queen, Maia is thrust into obstacles and hard decisions that she must make alone. She must rely on her instincts and let them show her the way. She must also learn to forgive her enemies and bestow them mercy. She strives to rule with truth and goodness. However, she is not perfect. She does not trust people easily, she is prone to jealousy, and sometimes has a thirst for vengeance. Yet, she is relatable because she wants to do what is right.
Overall, this book is about friendship, love, trust, mercy, choices, and forgiveness. The message of the story is to forgive those who have done you wrong. The story was fast-paced and full of adventure. The characters were likeable and the villains were complex and interesting. This book is a fantasy, however it is inspired by the life of an actual historical figure, Mary Tudor, the first female ruler of England. Thus, this book is full of court intrigue, suspense, danger, and action. I found that this book was a nice conclusion to the series. I recommend this book to anyone interested in Mary Tudor, warring kingdoms, and high epic fantasy.
(Note: I read an ARC copy of this book in courtesy of Netgalley.)
October 15, 2018
Yay! I am so glad this series ended with Maia finally coming into herself and the medium just like her ancestor Lia. I was worried for this series after book 2 because Maia just really didn't seem strong enough, and she was always depending on others instead of searching herself and the medium but of course I had no cause. I really love all the Muirwood stories, some of the the quotes and sayings are really profound and heartwarming.
Maia now the newly crowned Queen of Comoros has her work cut out for her getting her kingdom ready for the incoming armada, but now the people from her fathers old court are also trying a hand for the crown. I really feel like these stories are told from Maderos's history showing each event unfolding just as it needed to in order to teach the hero's and heroine's exactly what they needed to know in order to win their battles. Maia and Feint are perhaps my favorite couple so far from the Jeff Wheeler books I have read. They have to overcome so much adversity to even have a chance to be together.
I love how the author always models his characters from historical figures, even though the characters he chooses rarely have HEA stories, its almost like he is trying to rewrite history itself. Despite the wide range of reviews and ratings, if you don't try to pull the real world and its problems into your reading, I feel readers can just enjoy such a beautiful heartfelt story about a time and people, honor and faith, that is just really touching and enjoyable.
Maia now the newly crowned Queen of Comoros has her work cut out for her getting her kingdom ready for the incoming armada, but now the people from her fathers old court are also trying a hand for the crown. I really feel like these stories are told from Maderos's history showing each event unfolding just as it needed to in order to teach the hero's and heroine's exactly what they needed to know in order to win their battles. Maia and Feint are perhaps my favorite couple so far from the Jeff Wheeler books I have read. They have to overcome so much adversity to even have a chance to be together.
I love how the author always models his characters from historical figures, even though the characters he chooses rarely have HEA stories, its almost like he is trying to rewrite history itself. Despite the wide range of reviews and ratings, if you don't try to pull the real world and its problems into your reading, I feel readers can just enjoy such a beautiful heartfelt story about a time and people, honor and faith, that is just really touching and enjoyable.
May 10, 2017
Beautiful
Jeff Wheeler is blessed. His stories uplift the soul. This series in particular was full of emotions. Highly recommend all of his books. Maia is the main character who has been persecuted by her father. Magic is prevalent, but faith his the major player. As you journey through this series you are continually bolstered with hope. Friends, enemies and frenemies, who are they really...who can she trust? If you love twists and turns, read this. You will not be disappointed.
Jeff Wheeler is blessed. His stories uplift the soul. This series in particular was full of emotions. Highly recommend all of his books. Maia is the main character who has been persecuted by her father. Magic is prevalent, but faith his the major player. As you journey through this series you are continually bolstered with hope. Friends, enemies and frenemies, who are they really...who can she trust? If you love twists and turns, read this. You will not be disappointed.
June 1, 2017
Shame on you!
Shame on you Jeff Wheeler for writing such enthralling books! How is anyone supposed to live their lives? I have read consecutively the Kingfoutain series, Legends of Muirwood and now the Banished of Muirwood. I enjoyed each so so much. I feel these books are the perfect amount of drama, adventure with a dab of romance. I have told my reader friends and co-workers about all these books.
Shame on you Jeff Wheeler for writing such enthralling books! How is anyone supposed to live their lives? I have read consecutively the Kingfoutain series, Legends of Muirwood and now the Banished of Muirwood. I enjoyed each so so much. I feel these books are the perfect amount of drama, adventure with a dab of romance. I have told my reader friends and co-workers about all these books.
December 27, 2018
Such a great story!!
I loved all three books in this series. I was surprised at first. It seemed everything was a bit mixed up and I wasn’t sure I’d like it. Almost put it down because it seemed like it contradicts the first trilogy Witt Lia and Colvin (my favorite trilogy and characters ) who I still miss!!! Just keep on reading!!!!
I loved all three books in this series. I was surprised at first. It seemed everything was a bit mixed up and I wasn’t sure I’d like it. Almost put it down because it seemed like it contradicts the first trilogy Witt Lia and Colvin (my favorite trilogy and characters ) who I still miss!!! Just keep on reading!!!!
January 20, 2019
I kinda forced myself to finish this one. Banished was great, but then everything slowed down. I absolutely preferred the Kingfountain series. Though I will admit that Wheeler is great at writing unpredictable twists. I just didn't feel a great connection to this trilogy and the main character, whilst the secondary characters were far more interesting.
November 27, 2015
An incredible conclusion of this trilogy. Maria maintains her integrity through extreme pressure to cave. It is interesting that Wheeler based Maia on the life of "Bloody Mary". It was an awesome final book.
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